The Plains Art Museum started out as the Red River Art Center in 1965. It was housed in the former Moorhead Post Office. In 1975, the Museum acquired its present name. Maintaining its residency only until 1996, it is now housed in a renovated warehouse in downtown Fargo. It was opened to the public in October 1997.

The Museum’s facility occupies a 56,000 square feet area. It contains the Dawson Studio, Hannaher’s, Inc. Print Studio, Café Muse, the Goldberg Resource Library, The Store, meeting and reception space, two and a half story projection wall, permanent collection storage area, performance area, and care area.

It currently offers about 12 special exhibitions that are further supported by smaller ones each year. Featuring 20th and 21st century art pieces, the exhibits are enhanced by social events, performances, collaborations, and classes.